ACI 305R-99

Hot Weather Concreting

Reported by ACI Committee 305

Robert J. Ryan Kenneth B. Rear

Chairman Secretary

Muwafaq A. Abu-Zaid D. Gene Daniel Alexander Leschinsky

Bijan Ahmadi Richard D. Gaynor William C. Moore
J. Howard Allred John G. Gendrich Dan Ravina
Zawde Berhane G. Terry Harris, Sr. John M. Scanlon
Karl P. Brandt Barry L. Houseal Victor H. Smith
Terence M. Browne Frank A. Kozeliski George V. Teodoru
Joseph G. Cabrera Mark E. Leeman Habib M. Zein Al-Abidien
James N. Cornell, II

Concrete mixed, transported, and placed under conditions of high ambient Keywords: air entrainment; cooling; curing; evaporation; high tempera-
temperature, low humidity, solar radiation, or wind, requires an under- ture; hot weather construction; plastic shrinkage; production methods;
standing of the effects these environmental factors have on concrete retempering; slump tests; water content.
properties and construction operations. Measures can be taken to eliminate
or minimize undesirable effects of these environmental factors. Experience CONTENTS
in hot weather with the types of construction involved will reduce the Chapter 1Introduction, p. 305R-2
potential for serious problems. 1.1General
This committee report defines hot weather, lists possible potential
1.2Definition of hot weather
problems, and presents practices intended to minimize them. Among these
practices are such important measures as selecting materials and proportions, 1.3Potential problems in hot weather
precooling ingredients, special batching, length of haul, consideration of 1.4Potential problems related to other factors
concrete temperature as placed, facilities for handling concrete at the site, 1.5Practices for hot weather concreting
and during the early curing period, placing, and curing techniques, and
appropriate testing and inspecting procedures in hot weather conditions. A
Chapter 2Effects of hot weather on concrete
selected bibliography is included.
properties, p. 305R-3
These revisions involve an editorial revision of the document. The
2.1General
revisions focus in particular on the effects of hot weather on concrete
properties, and the use of midrange water-reducing admixtures and 2.2Temperature of concrete
extended set-control admixtures in hot weather. 2.3Ambient conditions
2.4Water requirements
2.5Effect of cement
2.6Supplementary cementitious materials
2.7Chemical admixtures
2.8Aggregates
ACI Committee Reports, Guides, and Commentaries are 2.9Proportioning
intended for guidance in planning, designing, executing, and
inspecting construction. This document is intended for the use
of individuals who are competent to evaluate the significance Chapter 3Production and delivery, p. 305R-11
and limitations of its content and recommendations and who 3.1General
will accept responsibility for the application of the material it 3.2Temperature control of concrete
contains. The American Concrete Institute disclaims any and 3.3Batching and mixing
all responsibility for the stated principles. The Institute shall
not be liable for any loss or damage arising therefrom.
Reference to this document shall not be made in contract ACI 305R-99 supersedes ACI 305R-91 and became effective October 27, 1999.
documents. If items found in this document are desired by the Copyright 2000, American Concrete Institute.
All rights reserved including rights of reproduction and use in any form or by any
Architect/Engineer to be a part of the contract documents, they means, including the making of copies by any photo process, or by electronic or
shall be restated in mandatory language for incorporation by mechanical device, printed, whitten, or oral, or recording for sound or visual repro-
the Architect/Engineer. duction or for use in any knowledge or retrieval system or device, unless permission in
writing is obtained from the copyright proprietors.

305R-1
305R-2 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT
3.4Delivery
3.5Slump adjustment
3.6Properties of concrete mixtures
3.7Retempering
Chapter 4Placing and curing, p. 305R-13
4.1General
4.2Preparations for placing and curing
4.3Placement and finishing
4.4Curing and protection
Chapter 5Testing and inspection, p. 305R-16
5.1Testing
5.2Inspection
Chapter 6References, p. 305R-17
6.1Referenced standards and reports
6.2Cited references
Appendix AEstimating concrete temperature,
p. 305R-19
Appendix BMethods for cooling fresh concrete,
p. 305R-19
CHAPTER 1INTRODUCTION
1.1General
Hot weather may create problems in mixing, placing, and
curing hydraulic cement concrete. These problems can
adversely affect the properties and serviceability of the con-
crete. Most of these problems relate to the increased rate of
cement hydration at higher temperature and increased evap-
oration rate of moisture from the freshly mixed concrete. The
rate of cement hydration is dependent on concrete tempera-
ture, cement composition and fineness, and admixtures used.
This report will identify problems created by hot weather
concreting and describe practices that will alleviate these
potential adverse effects. These practices include suggested
preparations and procedures for use in general types of hot
weather construction, such as pavements, bridges, and build-
ings. Temperature, volume changes, and cracking problems
associated with mass concrete are treated more thoroughly in
ACI 207.1R and ACI 224R.
A maximum as placed concrete temperature is often
used in an effort to control strength, durability, plastic-
shrinkage cracking, thermal cracking, and drying shrinkage.
The placement of concrete in hot weather, however, is too
complex to be dealt with by setting a maximum as placed
or as delivered concrete temperature. Concrete durability
is a general term that is difficult to quantify, but it is per-
ceived to mean resistance of the concrete to weathering (ACI
201.2R). Generally, if concrete strengths are satisfactory and
curing practices are sufficient to avoid undesirable drying of
surfaces, durability of hot weather concrete will not differ
greatly from similar concrete placed at normal temperatures.
The presence of a desirable air-void system is needed if the
concrete is going to be exposed to freezing cycles.
If an acceptable record of field tests is not available, con-
crete proportions may be determined by trial batches (ACI
301 and ACI 211.1). Trial batches should be made at temper-
atures anticipated in the work and mixed following one of
the procedures described in Section 2.9, Proportioning. The
concrete supplier and contractor are generally responsible
for determining concrete proportions to produce the required
quality of concrete unless specified otherwise.
According to ASTM C 31/C 31M, concrete test specimens
made in the field that are used for checking adequacy of
laboratory mixture proportions for strength or as a basis
for acceptance or quality control should be cured initially
at 60 to 80 F (16 to 27 C). If the initial 24 h curing is at 100 F
(38 C), the 28-day compressive strength of the test speci-
mens may be 10 to 15% lower than if cured at the required
ASTM C 31/C 31M curing temperature (Gaynor et al 1985).
If the cylinders are allowed to dry at early ages, strengths
will be reduced even further (Cebeci 1987). Therefore,
proper fabrication, curing, and testing of the test specimens
during hot weather is critical, and steps should be taken to
ensure that the specified procedures are followed.
1.2Definition of hot weather
1.2.1 For the purpose of this report, hot weather is any
combination of the following conditions that tends to impair
the quality of freshly mixed or hardened concrete by accel-
erating the rate of moisture loss and rate of cement hydration,
or otherwise causing detrimental results:
High ambient temperature;
High concrete temperature;
Low relative humidity;
Wind speed; and
Solar radiation.
1.2.2 The effects of high air temperature, solar radiation,
and low relative humidity may be more pronounced with
increases in wind speed (Fig. 2.1.5). The potential problems
of hot weather concreting may occur at any time of the year
in warm tropical or arid climates, and generally occur during
the summer season in other climates. Early cracking due to
thermal shrinkage is generally more severe in the spring and
fall. This is because the temperature differential for each 24 h
period is greater during these times of the year. Precautionary
measures required on a windy, sunny day will be more strict
than those required on a calm, humid day, even if air temper-
atures are identical.
1.3Potential problems in hot weather
1.3.1 Potential problems for concrete in the freshly mixed
state are likely to include:
Increased water demand;
Increased rate of slump loss and corresponding
tendency to add water at the job site;
Increased rate of setting, resulting in greater difficulty
with handling, compacting, and finishing, and a greater
risk of cold joints;
Increased tendency for plastic-shrinkage cracking; and
Increased difficulty in controlling entrained air content.
1.3.2 Potential deficiencies to concrete in the hardened
state may include:
Decreased 28-day and later strengths resulting from
 HOT WEATHER CONCRETING
either higher water demand, higher concrete tempera-
ture, or both at time of placement or during the first
several days;
Increased tendency for drying shrinkage and differen-
tial thermal cracking from either cooling of the overall
structure, or from temperature differentials within the
cross section of the member;
Decreased durability resulting from cracking;
Greater variability of surface appearance, such as cold
joints or color difference, due to different rates of
hydration or different water-cementitious material ratios
(w/cm);
Increased potential for reinforcing steel corrosion
making possible the ingress of corrosive solutions; and
Increased permeability as a result of high water content,
inadequate curing, carbonation, lightweight aggregates,
or improper matrix-aggregate proportions.
1.4Potential problems related to other factors
Other factors that should be considered along with climat-
ic factors may include:
Use of cements with increased rate of hydration;
Use of high-compressive-strength concrete, which
requires higher cement contents;
Design of thin concrete sections with correspondingly
greater percentages of steel, which complicate placing
and consolidation of concrete;
Economic necessity to continue work in extremely hot
weather; and
Use of shrinkage-compensating cement.
1.5Practices for hot weather concreting
Any damage to concrete caused by hot weather can never
be fully alleviated. Good judgment is necessary to select the
most appropriate compromise of quality, economy, and
practicability. The procedures selected will depend on: type
of construction; characteristics of the materials being used;
and experience of the local industry in dealing with high am-
bient temperature, high concrete temperatures, low relative
humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation.
The most serious difficulties occur when personnel
placing the concrete lack experience in constructing under
hot weather conditions or in doing the particular type of
construction. Last-minute improvisations are rarely
successful. Early preventive measures should be applied
with the emphasis on materials evaluation, advanced plan-
ning and purchasing, and coordination of all phases of work.
Planning in advance for hot weather involves detailed proce-
dures for mixing, placing, protection, curing, temperature
monitoring, and testing of concrete. Precautions to avoid
plastic-shrinkage cracking are important. The potential for
thermal cracking, either from overall volume changes or
from internal restraint, should be anticipated. Methods to
control cracking include: proper use of joints, increased
amounts of reinforcing steel or fibers, limits on concrete
temperature, reduced cement content, low-heat-of-hydration
cement, increased form-stripping time, and selection and
dosage of appropriate chemical and mineral admixtures.
305R-3
The following list of practices and measures to reduce or
avoid the potential problems of hot weather concreting are
discussed in detail in Chapters 2, 3, and 4:
Select concrete materials and proportions with satisfac-
tory records in hot weather conditions;
Cool the concrete;
Use a concrete consistency that permits rapid place-
ment and effective consolidation;
Minimize the time to transport, place, consolidate, and
finish the concrete;
Plan the job to avoid adverse exposure of the concrete
to the environment; schedule placing operations during
times of the day or night when weather conditions are
favorable;
Protect the concrete from moisture loss during placing
and curing periods; and
Schedule a preplacement conference to discuss the
requirements of hot weather concreting.
CHAPTER 2EFFECTS OF HOT WEATHER ON
CONCRETE PROPERTIES
2.1General
2.1.1 Properties of concrete that make it an excellent
construction material can be affected adversely by hot
weather, as defined in Chapter 1. Harmful effects are mini-
mized by control procedures outlined in this report. Strength,
impermeability, dimensional stability, and resistance of the
concrete to weathering, wear, and chemical attack all depend
on the following factors: selection and proper control of
materials and mixture proportioning; initial concrete temper-
ature; wind speed; solar radiation; ambient temperature; and
humidity condition during the placing and curing period.
2.1.2 Concrete mixed, placed, and cured at elevated
temperatures normally develops higher early strengths than
concrete produced and cured at lower temperatures, but
strengths are generally lower at 28 days and later ages. The
data in Fig. 2.1.2 shows that with increasing curing temper-
atures, 1-day strength will increase, and 28-day strength
decreases (Klieger 1958; Verbeck and Helmuth 1968).
Some researchers conclude that a relatively more uniform
microstructure of the hydrated cement paste can account
for higher strength of concrete mixtures cast and cured at
lower temperatures (Mehta 1986).
2.1.3 Laboratory tests have demonstrated the adverse
effects of high temperatures with a lack of proper curing on
concrete strength (Bloem 1954). Specimens molded and
cured in air at 73 F (23 C), 60% relative humidity and at
100 F (38 C), 25% relative humidity produced strengths of
only 73 and 62%, respectively, of that obtained for standard
specimens moist-cured at 73 F (23 C) for 28 days. The longer
the delay between casting the cylinders and placing into
standard moist storage, the greater the strength reduction.
The data illustrate that inadequate curing in combination
with high placement temperatures impairs the hydration
process and reduces strength. The tests were made on plain
concrete without admixtures or pozzolans that might have
improved its performance at elevated temperatures. Other
researchers determined that insufficient curing is more detri-
305R-4 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

Table 2.1.5Typical concrete temperatures for various relative humidities

potentially critical to plastic-shrinkage cracking
Critical evaporation rate
2
0.2 lb/ft /h 0.15 lb/ft2/h 0.10 lb/ft2/h 0.05 lb/ft2/h
Concrete (1.0 kg/m2/h) (0.75 kg/m2/h) (0.50 kg/m2/h) (0.25 kg/m2/h)
temperature, Air temperature,
F (C) F (C) Relative humidity, %*
105 (41) 95 (35) 85 100 100 100
100 (38) 90 (32) 80 95 100 100
95 (35) 85 (29) 75 90 100 100
90 (32) 80 (27) 60 85 100 100
85 (29) 75 (24) 55 80 95 100
80 (27) 70 (21) 35 60 85 100
75 (24) 65 (19) 20 55 80 100
*Relative humidity, % which evaporation rate will exceed the critical values shown, assuming air temperature is 10 F (6 C) cooler
than concrete temperature and a constant wind speed of 10 mph (16 km/h), measured at 20 in. (0.5 m) above the evaporating surface.
Note: Based on NRMCA-PCA nomograph (Fig. 2.1.5), results rounded to nearest 5%.

evaporation rate is given in Section 5.1.3. High concrete

Fig 2.1.2Effects of curing temperature on compressive
strength of concrete (Verbeck and Helmuth 1968).
mental than high temperatures (Cebeci 1986), and also that
required strength levels can be maintained by the proper use
of either chemical or mineral admixtures are used in the
concrete (Gaynor et al 1985; Mittelacher 1985 & 1992).
2.1.4 Plastic-shrinkage cracking is frequently associated
with hot weather concreting in arid climates. It occurs in
exposed concrete, primarily in flatwork, but also in beams
and footings, and may develop in other climates when the
surface of freshly cast concrete dries and subsequently
shrinks. Surface drying is initiated whenever the evaporation
rate is greater than the rate at which water rises to the surface
of recently placed concrete by bleeding. A method to estimate
temperatures, high wind speed, and low humidity, alone or in
combination, cause rapid evaporation of surface water. The
rate of bleeding, on the other hand, depends on concrete
mixture ingredients and proportions, on the depth of the
member being cast, and on the type of consolidation and
finishing. Because surface drying is initiated when evapora-
tion rate exceeds bleeding rate, the probability of plastic-
shrinkage cracking therefore increases whenever the environ-
mental conditions increase evaporation, or when the concrete
has a reduced bleeding rate. For example, concrete mixtures
incorporating fly ash, silica fume, or fine cements frequently
have a low to negligible bleeding rate, making such mixtures
highly sensitive to surface drying and plastic shrinkage, even
under moderately evaporative conditions (ACI 234R).
2.1.5 Plastic-shrinkage cracking is seldom a problem in hot-
humid climates where relative humidity is rarely less than 80%.
Table 2.1.5 shows, for various relative humidities, the concrete
temperatures that may result in critical evaporation rate levels,
and therefore increase the probability of plastic-shrinkage
cracking. The table is based on the assumption of a 10 mph
(16 km/h) wind speed and an air temperature of 10 F (6 C)
cooler than the concrete temperature.
The nomograph in Fig. 2.1.5 is based on common hydro-
logical methods for estimating the rate of evaporation of
water from lakes and reservoirs, and is therefore the most
accurate when estimating the rate of evaporation from the
surface of concrete while that surface is covered with bleed
water. When the concrete surface is not covered with bleed
water, the nomograph and its underlying mathematical
expression tends to overestimate the actual rate of water loss
from the concrete surface by as much as a factor of 2 or more
(Al-Fadhala 1997). The method is therefore the most useful
in estimating the evaporation potential of the ambient condi-
tions, and not as an estimator of the actual rate of water loss
from the concrete. Early in the bleeding process, however,
and at rates of evaporation less than or equal to 0.2 lb/ft2/h
(1.0 kg/m2/h), the method has been shown to be in good
agreement with water loss measurements, as long as the
temperature, humidity, and wind speed have been measured
 HOT WEATHER CONCRETING 305R-5

Fig. 2.1.5Effect of concrete and air temperatures, relative humidity, and wind speed
on the rate of evaporation of surface moisture from concrete. This chart provides a
graphic method of estimating the loss of surface moisture for various weather condi-
tions. To use this chart, follow the four steps outlined above. If the rate of evaporation
approaches 0.2 lb/ft2/h (1 kg/m2/h), precautions against plastic-shrinkage cracking are
necessary (Lerch 1957). Wind speed is the average horizontal air or wind speed in mph
(km/h) and should be measured at a level approximately 20 in. (510 mm) higher than
the evaporating surface. Air temperature and relative humidity should be measured at a
level approximately 4 to 6 ft (1.2 to 1.8 m) higher than the evaporating surface on its
windward side shielded from the suns rays (PCA Journal 1957).

as described in the text below Fig. 2.1.5. It is especially crit-
ical that wind speed be monitored at 20 in. (0.5 m) above the
evaporating surface. This is because wind speed increases
rapidly with height above the surface, and wind measure-
ments taken from higher than the prescribed height used in
developing the nomograph will overestimate evaporation
rate. Note also that wind speed varies tremendously over
time, and estimates should not be based on transient gusts of
wind. Use of Fig. 2.1.5 provides evaporation rate estimates
based on environmental factors of temperature, humidity,
and wind speed that contribute to plastic-shrinkage cracking.
The graphic method of the chart also yields ready informa-
tion on the effect of changes in one or more of these factors.
For example, it shows that concrete at a temperature of 70 F
305R-6 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT
Fig. 2.2.1(a)Effect of concrete temperature on slump and
on water required to change slump (average data for Type I
and II cements) (Klieger 1958).
Fig 2.2.1(b)Effect of temperature increase on the water
requirement of concrete (U.S. Bureau of Reclamation 1975).
(21 C) placed at an air temperature of 70 F (21 C), with a
relative humidity of 50% and a moderate wind speed of 10
mph (16 km/h), will have six times the evaporation rate of
the same concrete placed when there is no wind.
2.1.6 When evaporation rate is expected to approach the
bleeding rate of the concrete, precautions should be taken, as
explained in detail in Chapter 4. Because bleeding rates vary
from zero to over 0.2 lb/ft2/h (1.0 kg/m2/h), over time, and
are not normally measured, it is common to assume a value
for the critical rate of evaporation. The most commonly
quoted value is 0.2 lb/ft2/h (1.0 kg/m2/h). More recent expe-
rience with bridge deck overlays containing silica fume has
led to specified allowable evaporation rates of only 0.05 lb/ft2/h
(0.025 kg/m2/h) (Virginia Department Of Transportation).
Construction specifications for the State of New York and
the City of Cincinnati are intermediate evaporation rates of
0.15 and 0.10 lb/ft2/h (0.75 and 0.50 kg/m2/h), respectively.
The probability for plastic-shrinkage cracks to occur
may be increased if the setting time of the concrete is de-
layed due to the use of slow-setting cement, an excessive
dosage of retarding admixture, fly ash as a cement replace-
ment, or cooled concrete. Fly ash is also likely to reduce
bleeding and may thereby contribute to a cracking tendency
(ACI 226.3R). Plastic-shrinkage cracks are difficult to close
once they have occurred (see Section 4.3.5).
2.2Temperature of concrete
2.2.1 Unless measures are taken to control concrete perfor-
mance at elevated temperatures, by the selection of suitable
materials and proportions as outlined in Sections 2.3 through 2.9,
increases in concrete temperature will have the following ad-
verse effects. Other adverse effects are listed in Section 1.3.
The amount of the water required to produce a given
slump increases with the time. For constant mixing
time, the amount of water required to produce a given
slump also increases with the temperature, as shown in
Fig. 2.2.1(a) and 2.2.1(b);
Increased water content will create a decrease in
strength and durability, if the quantity of cementitious
material is not increased proportionately;
Slump loss will be evident earlier after initial mixing
and at a more rapid rate, and may cause difficulties with
handling and placing operations;
In an arid climate, plastic-shrinkage cracks are more
probable;
In sections of large dimensions, there will be an
increased rate of hydration and heat evolution that will
increase differences in temperature between the interior
and the exterior concrete. This may cause thermal crack-
ing (ACI 207.1R);
Early curing is critical and lack of it increasingly detri-
mental as temperatures rise.
2.3Ambient conditions
2.3.1 In the more general types of hot weather construction
(as defined in Section 1.2), it is impractical to recommend a
maximum ambient or concrete temperature because the
humidity and wind speed may be low, permitting higher
ambient and concrete temperatures. A maximum ambient or
concrete temperature that will serve a specific case may be
unrealistic in others. Accordingly, the committee can only
provide information about the effects of higher temperatures
in concrete as mentioned in Sections 1.3 and 2.2.1, and
advise that at some temperature between approximately 75
and 100 F (24 and 38 C) there is a limit that will be found to
be most favorable for best results in each hot weather opera-
tion, and such a limit should be determined for the work.
Practices for hot weather concreting should be discussed
during the preplacement conference.
Trial batches of concrete for the job should be made at the
limiting temperature selected, or at the expected job site high
temperature, rather than the 68 to 86 F (20 to 30 C) range
given in ASTM C 192. Procedures for testing of concrete
batches at temperatures higher than approximately 70 F (21 C)
are given in Section 2.9.
 HOT WEATHER CONCRETING
2.4Water requirements
2.4.1 Water, as an ingredient of concrete, greatly influenc-
es many of its significant properties, both in the freshly
mixed and hardened state. High water temperatures cause
higher concrete temperatures, and as the concrete tempera-
ture increases, more water is needed to obtain the same
slump. Fig. 2.2.1(b) illustrates the possible effect of concrete
temperature on water requirements. Unless the amount of ce-
mentitious material is increased proportionately, the extra
water increases the water-cementitious material ratio and
will decrease the strength, durability, watertightness, and
other related properties of the concrete. This extra water
must be accounted for during mix proportioning. Although
pertinent to concrete placed under all conditions, this points
to the special need to control the use of additional water in
concrete placed under hot weather conditions; see Section
2.3.1.
2.4.2 Fig. 2.2.1(a) illustrates the general effects of increas-
ing concrete temperature on slump of concrete when the
amount of mixing water is held constant. It indicates that an
increase of 20 F (11 C) in temperature may be expected to
decrease the slump by about 1 in. (25 mm). Fig. 2.2.1(a) also
illustrates changes in water requirement that may be neces-
sary to produce a 1 in. (25 mm) increase in slump at various
temperature levels. For 70 F (21 C) concrete, about 2-1/2%
more water is required to increase slump 1 in. (25 mm); for
120 F (50 C) concrete, 4-1/2% more water is needed for the 1
in. slump increase. The original mixing water required to
change slump may be less if a water-reducing, midrange wa-
ter-reducing, or high-range water-reducing admixture is used.
2.4.3 Drying shrinkage generally increases with total
water content (Portland Cement Association Design and
Control of Control Mixtures 1992). Rapid slump loss in hot
weather often increases the demand for water, increasing
total water content, and therefore, increasing the potential
for subsequent drying shrinkage. Concrete cast in hot weath-
er is also susceptible to thermal-shrinkage as it subsequently
cools. The combined thermal and drying shrinkage can lead
to more cracking than observed for the same concrete placed
under milder conditions.
2.4.4 Because water has a specific heat of about four to
five times that of cement or aggregates, the temperature of
the mixing water has the greatest effect per unit weight on
the temperature of concrete. The temperature of water is
easier to control than that of the other components. Even
though water is used in smaller quantities than the other
ingredients, cooled water will reduce the concrete placing
temperature, but usually by not more than approximately 8
F (4.5 C) (Fig. 2.4.4). The quantity of cooled water should
not exceed the batch water requirement, which will depend
on the mixture proportions and the moisture content of
aggregates. In general, lowering the temperature of the batch
water by 3.5 to 4 F (2.0 to 2.2 C) will reduce the concrete
temperature approximately 1 F (0.5 C). Efforts should there-
fore be made to obtain cold water. To keep it cold, tanks,
pipes, or trucks used for storing or transporting water should
be either insulated, painted white, or both. Water can be
cooled to as low as 33 F (1 C) using water chillers, ice, heat
305R-7
Fig 2.4.4General effects of cooled mixing water on
concrete temperature (National Ready Mixed Concrete
Association 1962).
pump technology, or liquid nitrogen. These methods and their
effectiveness are discussed further.
2.4.5 Using ice as part of the mixing water has remained a
major means of reducing concrete temperature. On melting,
ice absorbs heat at the rate of 144 Btu/lb (335 J/g). To be
most effective, the ice should be crushed, shaved, or chipped
when placed directly into the mixer as part of the mixing
water. For maximum effectiveness, the ice should not be
allowed to melt before it is placed in the mixer in contact
with other ingredients, however, but it must melt completely
prior to the completion of mixing of the concrete. For a more
rapid blending of materials at the beginning of mixing, not
all of the available batch water should be added in the form
of ice. Its quantity may have to be limited to approximately
75% of the batch water requirement. To maximize amounts
of ice or cold mixing water, aggregates should be well-
drained of free moisture, permitting a greater quantity of ice
or cold mixing water to be used. Fig. 2.4.5 illustrates poten-
tial reductions in concrete temperature by substituting
varying amounts of ice at 32 F (0 C) for mixing water at the
temperatures shown. Mixing should be continued until the
ice is melted completely. Crushed ice should be stored at a
temperature that will prevent lumps from forming by
refreezing of particles.
2.4.6 The temperature reduction can also be estimated by
using Eq. (A-4) or (A-5) in Appendix A. For most concrete,
the maximum temperature reduction with ice is approximately
20 F (11 C). When greater temperature reductions are
required, cooling by injection of liquid nitrogen into the
mixer holding mixed concrete may be the most expedient
means. See Appendix B for additional information. Liquid
injected nitrogen does not affect the mixing water require-
ment except by reducing concrete temperature.
305R-8 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT
Fig. 2.4.5General effects of ice in mixing water on concrete
temperature. Temperatures are normal mixing water temper-
atures (National Ready Mixed Concrete Association 1962).
2.5Effect of cement
2.5.1 High concrete temperature increases the rate of
hydration (Fig. 2.5.2). As a result, concrete stiffens more
rapidly and requires more water to produce or maintain the
desired slump. The higher water content will cause strength
loss and increase the cracking tendency of the concrete
unless offset by measures described in Sections 2.6.1 and 2.7.
2.5.2 Selection of a particular cement may have a decided
effect on the hot weather performance of concrete, as illus-
trated in Fig. 2.5.2. Although the curves are based on limited
data from mixtures using different cements in combination
with a set-retarding admixture, they show, for example, that
when tested at 100 F (38 C), the concrete with the slowest
setting cement reaches time of final setting 2-1/2 h later than
the concrete with the fastest setting cement. The concrete that
sets slowest at 100 F (38 C) was the fastest-setting cement
when tested at 50 F (10 C). Fig. 2.5.2 is a good example of the
difficulty of predicting performance of concrete at different
temperatures. In general, use of a normally slower-setting
Type II portland cement (ASTM C 150) or Type IP or IS
blended cement (ASTM C 595) may improve the handling
characteristics of concrete in hot weather (ACI 225R).
Concrete containing the slower setting cements will be more
likely to exhibit plastic-shrinkage cracking.
2.5.3 When using slower hydrating cements, the slower
rate of heat development and the simultaneous dissipation of
heat from the concrete result in lower peak temperatures.
There will be less thermal expansion, and the risk of thermal
cracking upon cooling of the concrete will be reduced. This
is an important consideration for slabs, walls, and mass con-
cretes, as discussed in ACI 207.1R and ACI 207.2R. The
temperature increase from hydration of cement in a given
concrete mixture is proportional to its cement content.
Therefore, the cement content should be limited to that
required to provide strength and durability. Concrete mix-
tures that obtain high strength at an early age will develop
high concrete temperature during initial curing. These con-
crete mixtures should be provided thermal protection to en-
sure gradual cooling at a rate that will not cause them to
crack; see Section 4.4.1.
2.5.4 Cement may be delivered at relatively high tempera-
tures. This is not unusual for newly manufactured cement
that has not had an opportunity to cool after grinding of the
component materials. Concrete mixtures will consist of
approximately 10 to 15% cement. This will increase
concrete temperature approximately 1 F (0.5 C) for each 8 F
(4 C) increase in cement temperature.
2.6Supplementary cementitious materials
2.6.1 Materials in this category include fly ash and other
pozzolans (ASTM C 618) and ground granulated blast-furnace
slag (ASTM C 989). Each are widely used as partial replace-
ments for portland cement; they may impart a slower rate of
setting and of early strength gain to the concrete, which is desir-
able in hot weather concreting, as explained in Section 2.5.2.
Faster setting cements or cements causing a rapid slump loss in
hot weather may perform satisfactorily in combination with
these materials (Gaynor et al 1985). The use of fly ash may
reduce the rate of slump loss of concrete under hot weather
conditions (Ravina 1984; Gaynor et al 1985).
2.7Chemical admixtures
2.7.1 Various types of chemical admixtures (ASTM C 494)
have been found beneficial in offsetting some of the undesirable
characteristics of concrete placed during periods of high
ambient temperatures (see also ACI 212.3R). The benefits may
include lower mixing water demand, extended periods of use,
and strengths comparable with, or higher than, concrete without
admixtures placed at lower temperatures. Their effectiveness
depends on the chemical reactions of the cement with which
they are used in the concrete. Admixtures without a history of
satisfactory performance at the expected hot weather conditions
should be evaluated before their use, as explained in Section
2.7.5. Chemical admixtures affect the properties of concrete as
described in the following.
2.7.2 Retarding admixtures meeting ASTM C 494, Type D
requirements have both water-reducing and set-retarding
properties, and are used widely under hot weather condi-
tions. They can be included in concrete in varying propor-
tions and in combination with other admixtures so that, as
temperature increases, higher dosages of the admixture may
be used to obtain a uniform time of setting. Their
water-reducing properties largely offset the higher water
demand resulting from increases in concrete temperature.
Because water-reducing retarders generally increase
concrete strength, they can be used, with proper mixture
adjustments, to avoid strength losses that would otherwise
result from high concrete temperatures (Gaynor et al 1985;
Mittelacher 1985 and 1992). Compared with concrete without
admixture, a concrete mixture that uses a water-reducing and
retarding admixture may have a higher rate of slump loss.
The net water reduction and other benefits remain substan-
 HOT WEATHER CONCRETING
Fig 2.5.2Effect of temperature and brand of cement on setting time characteristics of
concrete mortars (Tuthill and Cordon 1955).
tial even after the initial slump is increased to compensate for
slump loss.
2.7.3 Admixtures of the hydroxylated carboxylic acid type
(ACI 212.3R, Class 3) and some types meeting ASTM C
494, Type D requirements may increase the early bleeding
and rate of bleeding of concrete. This admixture-induced
early bleeding may be helpful in preventing drying of the
surface of concrete placed at high ambient temperature and
low humidity. Concrete that is prone to bleeding generally
should be reconsolidated after most of the bleeding has taken
place. Otherwise, differential settling may occur that can
lead to cracks over reinforcing steel and other inserts in
near-surface locations. This cracking is more likely in cool
weather with slower setting concretes than hot weather. If
the admixture reduces the tensile strength and tensile
strain capacity, however, plastic-shrinkage tendencies may
be increased (Ravina and Shalon 1968). Other admixtures
(ACI 212.3R, Classes 1 and 2) may reduce bleeding rate. If
drying conditions are such that crusting of the surface
blocks bleed water from reaching the surface, continued
bleeding may cause scaling. Under such conditions, fog
sprays, evaporation retardants (materials that retard the
evaporation of bleeding water of concrete), or both, should
be used to prevent crusting.
2.7.4 Some high-range, water-reducing and retarding
admixtures (ASTM C 494, Type G), and plasticizing and
retarding admixtures (ASTM C 1017, Type II), often
referred to as superplasticizers, can provide significant bene-
fits under hot weather conditions when used to produce
flowing concrete. At higher slumps, heat gain from internal
friction during mixing of the concrete will be less (see
ASTM STP 169C and ACI 207.4R). The improved handling
characteristics of flowing concrete permit more rapid place-
ment and consolidation, and the period between mixing and
initial finishing can therefore be reduced. The rate of slump
loss of flowing concrete may also be less at higher tempera-
tures than in concrete using conventional retarders (Yama-
305R-9
moto and Kobayashi 1986). Concrete strengths are generally
found to be substantially higher than those of comparable
concrete without admixture and with the same cement
content. Certain products may cause significant bleeding,
which may be beneficial in many instances, but may require
some precautions in others (see Section 2.7.3). Air-content
tests will be needed before placement to assure maintenance
of proper air content. Assurance also may be needed that the
air-void system is not impaired if it is required for the
freezing and thawing resistance of the concrete. This can be
determined by requiring hardened air analysis or ASTM C
666 freezing and thawing testing. Some high-range
water-reducing retarders can maintain the necessary slump
for extended periods at elevated concrete temperatures
(Collepardi et al 1979; Hampton 1981; Guennewig 1988).
These will be of particular benefit in the event of delayed
placements or deliveries over greater distances. Other
high-range water-reducing admixtures may greatly accel-
erate slump loss, particularly when initial slumps are less
than 3 to 4 in. (75 to 100 mm). Some water-reducing admix-
tures can cause the concrete to extend its working time by a
couple of hours, followed by acceleration of strength gain.
2.7.5 Since the early 1990s, the use of midrange water-
reducing admixtures in hot weather has increased. Midrange
water-reducing admixtures provide up to 15% water reduc-
tion, which is higher than conventional water-reducing admix-
tures, but lower water reduction than high-range water-
reducing admixtures. Although at present there is no ASTM
classification, midrange water-reducing admixtures comply
with the requirements of ASTM C 494, Type A admixtures,
and in some cases, Type F admixtures. These admixtures will
not delay the setting time of the concrete significantly. At
higher dosages, conventional water-reducing admixtures can
achieve this water reduction, but with significant increase in
the setting time of the concrete. The pumping and finishing
characteristics of concrete containing midrange water-
reducing admixtures are improved when compared with
305R-10 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT
concrete containing conventional Type A water reducers. The
use of midrange water reducers is particularly beneficial in
cases where aggregate properties contribute to poor work-
ability or finishing difficulties. The surface appearance of
concrete containing a midrange water reducer could be
changed, thereby requiring a change of the timing of finishing
operations. Also available are midrange water-reducing and
retarding admixtures that comply with ASTM C 494 require-
ments for Type D admixtures.
2.7.6 The use of extended set-control admixtures to stop
the hydration process of freshly mixed concrete (freshly
batched or returned plastic concrete that normally would be
disposed), and concrete residue (washwater) in ready-mix
truck drums has gained increased acceptance in hot weather
environments since their introduction in 1986. Some
extended set-control admixtures comply with ASTM C 494
requirements for Type B, retarding admixtures, and Type D,
water-reducing and retarding mixtures. Extended set-control
admixtures differ from conventional retarding admixtures in
that they stop the hydration process of both the silicate and
aluminate phases in portland cement. Regular retarding
admixtures only act on the silicate phases, which extend (not
stop) the hydration process. The technology of extended set-
control admixtures may also be used to stop the hydration
process of freshly batched concrete for hauls requiring
extended time periods or slow placement methods during
transit. For this application, the extended set-control admix-
ture is added during or immediately after the batching
process. Proper dosage rates of extended set-control admix-
tures should be determined by trial mixtures incorporating
project time requirements in this way ensuring that the
concrete will achieve the required setting time. Additional
admixtures are not required to restart hydration.
2.7.7 The qualifying requirements of ASTM C 494 afford a
valuable screening procedure for the selection of admixture
products. Admixtures without a performance history
pertaining to the concrete material selected for the work
should be first evaluated in laboratory trial batches at the
expected high job temperature, using one of the procedures
described in Section 2.9. Some high-range, water-reducing
retarders may not demonstrate their potential benefits when
used in small laboratory batches. Further testing may then be
required in production-size concrete batches. During prelimi-
nary field use, concrete containing admixture should be eval-
uated for consistency of performance in regard to the desired
characteristics in hot weather construction. When evaluating
admixtures, properties such as workability, pumpability, early
strength development, placing and finishing characteristics,
appearance, and effect on reuse of molds and forms should be
considered in addition to the basic properties of slump reten-
tion, setting time, and strength. These characteristics may
influence selection of an admixture and its dosage more than
properties usually covered by most specifications.
2.8Aggregates
2.8.1 Aggregates are the major constituent of concrete, as
they account for 60 to 80% of the volume of normalweight
concrete used in most structures. Therefore, the properties of
the aggregate affect the quality of concrete significantly. The
size, shape, and grading of the aggregate are three of the
principal factors that affect the amount of water required to
produce concrete at a given slump. Aggregate properties de-
sirable in hot weather concreting include the following:
Gradation, particle shape, and the absence of under-
sized material are very important in minimizing water
demand (ACI 221R). Crushed coarse aggregate also
contributes to higher water demand, but is reported to
provide better resistance to cracking than rounded
gravels (ACI 224R). The blending of three or more
aggregate sizes may reduce the mixing water require-
ments and improve workability at a given slump (Shil-
stone, Sr. and Shilstone, Jr. 1993).
2.8.2 With coarse aggregate being the ingredient of great-
est mass in concrete, changes in its temperature have a con-
siderable effect on concrete temperatures. For example, a
moderate 1.5 to 2 F (0.8 to 1.1 C) temperature reduction will
lower the concrete temperature 1 F (0.5 C). Cooling the
coarse aggregate may be an effective supplementary means
to achieve desired lower concrete temperature (see Appendix B).
2.9Proportioning
2.9.1 Mixture proportions may be established or adjusted
on the basis of field-performance records in accordance with
ACI 318/318R (ACI 318/318RM), provided the records in-
dicate the effect of expected seasonal temperatures and de-
livery times.
2.9.2 Selection of ingredients and their proportions should
be guided by their contribution to satisfactory performance
of the concrete under hot weather conditions (ACI 211.1 and
211.2). Cement content should be kept as low as possible but
sufficient to meet strength and durability requirements.
Inclusion of supplementary cementitious materials, such as
fly ash or ground granulated blast-furnace slag, should be
considered to delay setting and to mitigate the temperature
rise from heat of hydration. The use of various types of
water-reducing admixtures can offset increased water
demand and strength loss that could otherwise be caused by
higher concrete temperatures. High-range, water-reducing
retarders formulated for extended slump retention
should be considered if longer delivery periods are anticipated.
Unless required otherwise, concrete should be proportioned
for a slump of not less than 3 in. (75 mm) to permit prompt
placement and effective consolidation in the form.
2.9.3 The performance of the concrete mixtures proposed
for the work should be verified under conditions approximating
the delivery time and hot weather environment expected at
the project. Trial batches used to select proportions are
normally prepared in accordance with ASTM C 192. The
method requires concrete materials to be at room tempera-
ture [in the range of 68 to 86 F (20 to 30 C)]. Trial batches,
however, should also be performed at the expected
maximum placing temperature with consideration of using a
mixing and agitating period longer than that required in
ASTM C 192 to help define the performance to be expected.
2.9.4 In determining mixture proportions using laboratory
trial batches, a procedure for estimating the slump loss during
 HOT WEATHER CONCRETING
the period between first mixing of the concrete and its place-
ment in the form is suggested in Procedures A and B, below,
adopted from ACI 223, Section 4.5.2 on shrinkage-compen-
sating concrete. These procedures from ACI 223 were found
to produce a rate of slump loss similar to that expected for a
30 to 40 min delivery time.
Procedure A
1. Prepare the batch using ASTM C 192 procedures, but
add 10% additional water over that normally required;
2. Mix initially in accordance with ASTM C 192 (3 min
mixing followed by a 3 min rest and 2 min remixing);
3. Determine the slump and record as initial slump;
4. Continue mixing for 15 min;
5. Determine the slump and record as estimated placement
slump. Experience has shown this slump correlates with that
expected for 30 to 40 min delivery time. If this slump does
not meet the specification limits, either discard and repeat the
procedure with an appropriate water adjustment or add water
to give the required slump and then test the concrete; and
6. Determine other properties of fresh concrete (temper-
ature, air content, unit weight), and mold strength test
specimens.
Procedure B
1. Prepare the batch using ASTM C 192 procedures for the
specified slump;
2. Mix in accordance with ASTM C 192 (3 min mixing,
3 min rest, and 2 min remixing) and confirm the slump;
3. Stop the mixer and cover the batch with wet burlap;
4. After 20 min, remix 2 min, adding water to produce the
specified slump. The total water (initial water plus the remix-
ing water) can be expected to equal that required at the batch
plant to give the required job site slump; and
5. Determine other properties of fresh concrete (temperature,
air content, unit weight), and mold-strength test specimens.
2.9.5 As an alternative method, use of full-size production
batches may be considered for verification of mixture
proportions, provided the expected high temperature levels
of the concrete can be attained. This may be the preferred
method when using admixtures selected for extended slump
retention. It requires careful recording of batch quantities at
the plant and of water added for slump adjustment before
sampling. Sampling procedures of ASTM C 172 should be
strictly observed.
CHAPTER 3PRODUCTION AND DELIVERY
3.1General
Production facilities and procedures should be capable of
providing the required quality of concrete under hot weather
conditions at production rates required by the project. Satis-
factory control of production and delivery operations should
be assured. Concrete plant and delivery units should be in
good operating condition. Intermittent stoppage of deliveries
due to equipment breakdown can be much more serious un-
der hot weather conditions than in moderate weather. In hot
weather concreting operations, concrete placements may be
scheduled at times other than during daylight hours, such as
during the coolest part of the morning. Night-time produc-
tion requires good planning and good lighting.
305R-11
3.2Temperature control of concrete
3.2.1 Concrete can be produced in hot weather without
maximum limits on placing temperature and will perform
satisfactorily if proper precautions are observed in propor-
tioning, production, delivery, placing, and curing. As part of
these precautions, an effort should be made to keep the con-
crete temperature as low as practical. Using the relationships
given in Appendix A, it can be shown, for example, that the
temperature of concrete of usual proportions can be reduced
by 1 F (0.5 C) if any of the following reductions are made in
material temperatures:
8 F (4 C) reduction in cement temperature;
4 F (2 C) reduction in water temperature; or
2 F (1 C) reduction in the temperature of the aggregates.
3.2.2 Figure 3.2.2 shows the influence of the temperature
of concrete ingredients on concrete temperature. As the
greatest portion of concrete is aggregate, reduction of aggre-
gate temperature brings about the greatest reduction in
concrete temperature. Therefore, all practical means should
be employed to keep the aggregates as cool as possible.
Shaded storage of fine and coarse aggregates, and sprinkling
and fog spraying of coarse aggregates stock-piles under arid
conditions will help. Sprinkling of coarse aggregates with
cool water can reduce aggregate temperature by evaporation
and direct cooling (Lee 1987). Passing water through a prop-
erly sized evaporative cooling tower will chill the water to
the wet bulb temperature. This procedure will have greater
effects in areas that have low relative humidity. Wetting of
aggregates, however, tends to cause variations in surface
moisture and thereby complicates slump control.
Above-ground storage tanks for mixing water should be
provided with shade and thermal insulation. Silos and bins
will absorb less heat if coated with heat-reflective paints.
Painting mixer surfaces white to minimize solar heat gain
will be of some help. Based on 1 h delivery time on a hot,
sunny day, concrete in a clean white mixer drum should be 2
to 3 F (1 to 1.5 C) cooler than in a black or red mixer drum,
and 0.5 F (0.3 C) cooler than in a cream-colored drum. If an
empty mixer drum stands in the sun for an extended period
before concrete is batched, the heat stored in the metal drum
would produce concrete temperatures 0.5 to 1 F (0.3 to 0.5 C)
lower for a white mixer drum than a yellow or red mixer
drum. Spraying the exterior of the mixer drum with water
before batching or during delivery has been suggested as a
means of minimizing concrete temperature, but it can be
expected to be of only marginal benefit.
3.2.3 Setting up the means for cooling sizeable amounts of
concrete production requires planning well in advance of
placement and installation of specialized equipment. This
can include chilling of batch water by water chillers or heat
pump technology as well as other methods, such as substitut-
ing crushed or flaked ice for part of the mixing water, or
cooling by liquid nitrogen. Delivery of the required quantity
of cooling materials should be assured for each placement.
Details for estimating concrete temperatures are provided in
Appendix A. Various cooling methods are described in
Appendix B. The general influence of the temperature of
305R-12 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT
Fig. 3.2.2Influence of temperature of concrete ingredients on concrete temperature.
Calculated from equations in Appendix A.
concrete ingredients on concrete temperature is calculated
from the equations in Appendix A, and shown in Fig. 3.2.2.
3.3Batching and mixing
3.3.1 Batching and mixing is described in ACI 304R.
Procedures under hot weather conditions are no different
from good practices under normal weather conditions.
Producing concrete of the correct slump and other specified
properties to confirm with applicable specifications is essen-
tial. An interruption in the concrete placement due to rejection
may cause the formation of a cold joint or serious problems in
finishing. Testing of concrete must be diligent and accurate so
that results represent the true condition of the concrete.
3.3.2 For truck-mixed concrete, initial mixing of approxi-
mately 70 revolutions at the batch plant prior to transporting
will allow an accurate verification of the condition of the
concrete, primarily its slump and air content. Generally,
centrally mixed concrete can be inspected visually as it is being
discharged into the transportation unit. Slump can easily
change due to minor changes in materials and concrete charac-
teristics. For example, an undetected change of only 1.0%
moisture content of the fine and coarse aggregates could
change slump by 1 to 2 in. (25 to 50 mm) (ACI 211.1). An error
range of approximately 0.5% in the determination of aggregate
moisture complicates moisture control, even with advanced
systems. Operators often batch concrete in a drier condition
than desired to avoid producing a slump higher than specified;
a small water addition may be needed at the job site.
3.3.3 Hot weather conditions and extended hauling time
may indicate a need to split the batching process by batching
the cement at the job site, or layering the materials in the mixer
drum at the plant to keep some of the cement dry and then
mixing the concrete after arrival at the job site. This may not,
however, contribute to concrete uniformity between loads.
These methods may, on occasion, offer the best solution
under existing conditions. A better controlled concrete can
usually be provided when all materials are batched at the
concrete production facility. By using some effective
retarding admixtures at appropriate dosages, preferably in
combination with cementitious material of slow-setting
characteristics, concrete can be maintained in a placeable
condition for extended periods even in hot weather (see
Section 2.7). Field experience indicates that concrete set
retardation can be extended further by separately batching
the retarding admixture with a small portion of mixing
water, 1 to 2 gal/yd3 (5 to 10 L/m3), after the concrete has
been mixed for several minutes. These admixtures, together
with the cementitious materials and other ingredients
 HOT WEATHER CONCRETING
proposed for the project, should be evaluated in the field for
desired properties. Should the slump be lower than required,
the use of midrange water-reducing or high-range water-
reducing admixtures is recommended to increase the
concrete slump.
3.3.4 Under hot weather conditions, the amount of mixing
at mixing speed of the mixer should be held to a minimum to
avoid any unnecessary heat gain of the concrete (ACI
207.4R). For efficient mixing, mixers should be free of
buildup of hardened concrete and excessive wear of mixer
blades. As soon as the concrete has been mixed to a homo-
geneous condition, all further drum rotation should be at the
lowest agitating speed of the unit (generally one revolution
per min). The drum should not be stopped for extended peri-
ods of time. There is potential for false setting problems
causing the concrete to stiffen rapidly or set in the drum, or
for flattening of the mixer rollers.
3.3.5 Specifications governing the total number of revolu-
tions of the drum usually set a limit of 300 revolutions for
truck mixers. This limit should be waived for conditions that
require further thorough mixing of the concrete:
Separate addition of high-range, water-reducing admix-
tures;
Direct addition of liquid injected nitrogen into the
mixer as a means of lowering the concrete temperature;
and
If the concrete retains its workability without the addi-
tion of water.
3.4Delivery
Cement hydration, temperature rise, slump loss, aggregate
grinding, and either loss or, occasionally, gain of air content
all occur with the passage of time while the concrete is in the
mixer; thus, the period between start of mixing to start of
placement of the concrete should be minimized. Coordinat-
ing the dispatching of mixer trucks with the rate of concrete
placement avoids delays in arrival or waiting periods until
discharge. On major concrete placements, provisions should
be made to have good communications between the job site
and concrete-production facility. Major placements should
be scheduled during periods of lower urban traffic loads.
When placement is slow, consideration should be given to
reducing load size, using set-retarding admixture, or using
cooled concrete.
3.5Slump adjustment
Fresh concrete is subject to slump loss with time, whether
it is used in moderate or hot weather. With given materials
and mixture proportions, the slump change characteris-
tics between plant and job site should be established. With
the limitations on accurately predicting slump, as explained
in Section 3.3.2, uncertainty in traffic, and the timing of
placing operations, operators need to batch concrete in a
drier condition to avoid a slump higher than specified. If, on
arrival at the job site, the slump is less than the specified
maximum, additional water may be added if the maximum
allowable water content is not exceeded. When water is
added to bring the slump within required limits, the drum or
305R-13
blades must be turned an additional 30 revolutions or more,
if necessary, at mixing speed. For expeditious placement and
effective consolidation, structural concrete should have a
minimum slump of 3 or 4 in. (75 or 100 mm). Slump
increases should be allowed when chemical admixtures are
used, providing the admixture-treated concrete has the same
or lower water-cementitious materials ratio (w/cm) and does
not exhibit segregation potential.
3.6Properties of concrete mixtures
The proposed mixtures should be suitable for expected job
conditions. This is particularly important when there are no
limits on placing temperatures, as is the case in most general
construction in the warmer regions. Use of cements or
cementitious materials that perform well under hot weather
conditions, in combination with water-reducing and
retarding admixtures, can provide concrete of required prop-
erties (Mittelacher 1985). When using high-range,
water-reducing and retarding admixtures, products should be
selected that provided extended slump retention in hot
weather (Collepardi et al 1979; Guennewig 1988). In dry and
windy conditions, the setting rate of concrete used in flatwork
should be adjusted to minimize plastic-shrinkage cracking or
crusting of the surface, with the lower layer still in a plastic
condition. The type of adjustment depends on local climatic
conditions, timing of placements, and concrete temperatures. A
change in admixture dosage or formulation can often provide
the desired setting time.
3.7Retempering
Retempering is defined as additions of water and
remixing of concrete, or mortar which has lost enough work-
ability to become unplaceable or unsaleable (ACI 116R).
Laboratory research, as well as field experience, shows that
strength reduction and other detrimental effects are propor-
tional to the amount of retempering water added. Therefore,
water additions in excess of the proportioned maximum
water content or w/cm to compensate for loss of workability
should be prohibited. Adding chemical admixtures, particu-
larly high-range water-reducing admixtures, may be very
effective to maintain workability.
CHAPTER 4PLACING AND CURING
4.1General
4.1.1 The requirements for good results in hot weather
concrete placing and curing are no different than in other
seasons. The same necessities exist:
Concrete be handled and transported with a minimum
of segregation and slump loss;
Concrete be placed where it is to remain;
Concrete be placed in layers shallow enough to assure
vibration well into the layer below and that the elapsed
time between layers be minimized to avoid cold joints;
Construction joints outlined in ACI 224.3R be made on
sound, clean concrete;
Finishing operations and their timing be guided only by
the readiness of the concrete for them, and nothing else;
and
305R-14 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT
Curing be conducted so that at no time during the pre-
scribed period will the concrete lack ample moisture
and temperature control to permit full development of
its potential strength and durability.
4.1.2 Details of placing, consolidation, and curing proce-
dures are described in ACI 304R, 308R, and 309R. It is the
purpose of this chapter to point out the factors peculiar to hot
weather that can affect these operations and the resulting
concrete and to recommend what should be done to prevent
or offset their influence.
4.2Preparations for placing and curing
4.2.1 Planning hot weather placementsPrior to the start
of the project, plans should be made for minimizing the
exposure of the concrete to adverse conditions. Whenever
possible, placing of slabs should be scheduled after roof
structure and walls are in place to minimize problems associ-
ated with drying winds and direct sunlight. This will also re-
duce thermal shock from rapid temperature drops caused by
wide day and night temperature differences or cool rain on
concrete heated by the sun earlier in the day.
Under hot weather conditions, scheduling concrete place-
ments at other-than-normal hours may be advisable. Pertinent
considerations include ease of handling and placing, and
avoiding the risk of plastic-shrinkage and thermal cracking.
4.2.2 Preparing for ambient conditionsPersonnel in
charge of concrete construction should be aware in advance
of the damaging combinations of high air temperature, direct
sunlight, drying winds, and high concrete temperature.
Monitoring of local weather reports and routine recording of
conditions at the site, including air temperature, sun expo-
sure, relative humidity, and prevailing winds, can be
conducted locally. These data, together with projected or
actual concrete temperatures, enable supervisory personnel
through reference to Fig. 2.1.5 to determine and prepare the
required protective measures. Equipment should also be
available at the site for measuring the evaporation rate in
accordance with Section 5.1.3.
4.2.3 Expediting placementsPreparations must be made
to transport, place, consolidate, and finish the concrete at the
fastest possible rate. Delivery of concrete to the job should
be scheduled so it will be placed promptly on arrival, partic-
ularly the first batch. Many concrete placements get off to a
bad start because the concrete was ordered before the job
was ready and slump control was lost at this most critical
time. Traffic arrangements at the site should ensure easy
access of delivery units to the unloading points over stable
roadways. Site traffic should be coordinated for a quick turn-
around of concrete mixer trucks. If possible, large or critical
placements should be scheduled during periods of low urban
traffic loads.
4.2.4 Placing equipmentEquipment for placing the con-
crete shall be of suitable design and have ample capacity to
perform its functions efficiently. All equipment should have
adequate power for the work and be in first-class operating
condition. Breakdowns or delays that stop or slow the place-
ment can seriously affect the quality and appearance of the
work. Arrangements should be made for readily available
backup equipment. Concrete pumps, if used, must be capa-
ble of pumping the specified class of concrete through the
length of line and elevation at required rates per h. If place-
ment is by crane and buckets, wide-mouth buckets with
steep-angled walls should be used to permit rapid and com-
plete discharge of bucket contents. Adequate means of com-
munication between bucket handlers and placing crew should
be provided to assure that concrete is charged into buckets
only if the placing crew is ready to use the concrete without
delay. Concrete should not be allowed to rest exposed to
the sun and high temperature before placing it into the form.
To minimize the heat gain of the concrete during placement,
delivery units, conveyors, pumps, and pump lines should be
kept in the shade if possible. In addition, pump lines should
be painted white. Lines can also be cooled by covering with
damp burlap, kept wet with a soaker hose, or similar means.
4.2.5 Consolidation equipmentThere should be ample
vibration equipment and manpower to consolidate the con-
crete immediately as it is received in the form. Procedures
and equipment are described in ACI 309R. Provision should
be made for an ample number of standby vibratorsat least
one standby for each three vibrators in use. On sites subject
to occasional power outages, portable generators should be
available for uninterrupted vibrator operation. Apart from
the unsightliness of poorly consolidated concrete, insuffi-
cient compaction in the form may seriously impair the dura-
bility and structural performance of reinforced concrete.
4.2.6 Preparations for protecting and curing the concrete
Ample water should be available at the project site for moist-
ening the subgrade, as well as for fogging forms and rein-
forcement prior to concrete placement, and for moist curing
if applicable. Fog nozzles should produce a fog blanket.
They should not be confused with common garden-hose
nozzles, which generate an excessive washing spray. Pres-
sure washers with a suitable nozzle attachment may be a
practical means for fogging on smaller jobs. Materials and
means should be on hand for erecting temporary windbreaks
and shades as needed to protect against drying winds and
direct sunlight. Plastic sheeting or sprayable compounds for
applying temporary moisture-retaining films should be
available to reduce evaporation from flatwork between
finishing passes. If concrete placed under hot weather
conditions is exposed to rapid temperature drops, thermal
protection should be provided to protect the concrete against
thermal-shrinkage cracking. Finally, curing materials should
be readily available at the project site to permit prompt
protection of all exposed surfaces from premature drying
upon completion of the placement.
4.2.7 Preparing incidental workDue to faster setting
and hardening of the concrete in hot weather, the timing of
various final operations as saw-cutting joints and applying
surface retarders becomes more critical; therefore, these
operations must be planned in advance. Plans should be
made for the timely sawing of contraction joints in flatwork
to minimize cracking due to excessive tensile stresses. Typi-
cally, joints that are cut using the conventional wet or dry
process are made within 4 to 12 h after the slab has been
finished; 4 h in hot weather to 12 h in cold weather. For early
 HOT WEATHER CONCRETING
entry dry-cut saws, the waiting period will typically vary
from 1 h in hot weather to 4 h in cold weather (ACI 302.1R).
4.3Placement and finishing
4.3.1 GeneralSpeed-up of placement and finishing
materially reduces hot weather difficulties. Delays increase
slump loss and invite the addition of water to offset it. Each
operation in finishing should be carried out promptly when
the concrete is ready for it. The concrete should not be placed
faster than it can be properly consolidated and finished. If the
placing rate is not coordinated with the available work force
and equipment, the quality of the work will be marred by
cold joints, poor consolidation, and uneven surface finishes.
4.3.2 Placing formed concreteIn hot weather, it is
usually necessary to place concrete in shallower layers than
those used in moderate weather to assure coverage of the
lower layer while it will still respond readily to vibration.
The interval between monolithic wall and deck placements
becomes very short in hot weather. This interval may be
extended by the judicious use of set-retarding admixtures.
4.3.3 Placement of flatworkDuring the depositing of
concrete for flatwork on the ground, the subgrade should be
moist, yet free of standing water and soft spots. In placing
concreting slabs of any kind, it may be necessary in hot
weather to keep the operation confined to a small area and to
proceed on a front having a minimum amount of exposed
surface to which concrete is to be added. A fog nozzle should
be used to cool the air, to cool any forms and steel immedi-
ately ahead, and to lessen rapid evaporation from the
concrete surface before and after each finishing operation.
Excessive fog application (which would wash the fresh
concrete surface or cause surplus water to cling to reinforce-
ment or stand on the concrete surface during floating and
troweling) must be avoided. Other means of reducing mois-
ture loss include spreading and removing impervious sheeting
or application of sprayable moisture-retaining (monomolec-
ular) films one or more times as needed, between the various
finishing operations. Finishing of flatwork should commence
after the surface sheen of the (monomolecular) film has disap-
peared. These products should not be used as finishing aids or
worked into the surface, as concrete durability may be
reduced. Contact the product manufacturer for information on
proper application and dosage. These procedures may cause a
slight increase of the concrete temperature in place due to
reduced evaporative cooling. Generally, the benefit from
reduced moisture evaporation is more important than the
increase of in-place concrete temperature (Berhane 1984).
4.3.4 Plastic-shrinkage cracksWithout protection against
moisture loss, plastic-shrinkage cracks may occur, as
described in Section 2.1.5. In relatively massive placements,
revibration before floating can sometimes close this type of
cracking. Before the concrete reaches final set, the cracks
can frequently be closed by striking the surface on each side
of the crack with a float. The affected area is then retroweled
to level finish.
It serves no lasting purpose to merely trowel a slurry over
the cracks, because these are likely to reappear if not firmly
closed and immediately covered to avoid evaporation.
305R-15
4.4Curing and protection
4.4.1 GeneralAfter completing placing and finishing
operations, efforts must continue to protect the concrete from
high temperature, direct sunlight, low humidity, and drying
winds. If possible, the work should be kept in a uniformly
moderate temperature condition to allow the concrete to
develop its full strength potential. High initial curing temper-
atures are detrimental to the ultimate strength to a greater
degree than high placing temperatures (Bloem 1954; Barnes et
al 1977; Gaynor et al 1985). Procedures for keeping exposed
surfaces from drying must be promptly commenced, with
ample coverage and continued without interruption. Failure to
do so may result in excessive shrinkage and cracking, and will
impair the surface durability and strength of the concrete.
Curing should be continued for at least the first 7 days. If a
change in curing method is made during this period, it should
be done only after the concrete is 3 days old. The concrete
surface should not be permitted to become dry during the tran-
sition. The various methods of curing are described in ACI
308R. The concrete should also be protected against thermal-
shrinkage cracking from rapid temperature drops, particularly
during the first 24 h. This type of cracking is usually associ-
ated with a cooling rate of more than 5 F (3 C) per h, or more
than 50 F (28 C) in a 24 h period for concrete with a least
dimension less than about 12 in. (300 mm). Concrete exposed
to rapid cooling has a lower tensile strain capacity and is more
susceptible to cracking than concrete that is allowed to cool at
a slower rate (ACI 207.4R). Hot weather patterns likely to
cause thermal cracking include wide day and night tempera-
ture differences and cold rain. Under these conditions, the
concrete should be protected by placing several layers of
waterproof paper over the concrete, or by using other insu-
lating methods and materials described in ACI 306R.
4.4.2 Moist-curing of flatworkOf the different curing
procedures, moist-curing is the best method for developing
the strength of concrete and minimizing early drying
shrinkage. It can be provided by ponding, covering with clean
sand kept continuously wet, or continuous sprinkling. This
will require an ample water supply and disposal of the runoff.
When sprinkling is used, care must be taken that erosion of
the surface does not occur. A more practical method of
moist-curing is that of covering the prewetted concrete with
impervious sheeting or application of absorptive mats or
fabric kept continuously wet with a soaker hose or similar
means. Suitable coverings are described in ACI 308R. These
materials should be kept in contact with the concrete surface
at all times. Alternate cycles of wetting and drying must be
avoided because this may result in pattern cracking. The
temperature of water used for curing must be as close as
possible to that of the concrete to avoid thermal shock.
4.4.3 Membrane curing of flatworkUse of liquid
membrane-forming compounds is the most practical method
of curing where job conditions are not favorable for
moist-curing. The membranes restrict the loss of moisture
from the concrete, thereby allowing the development of
strength, durability, and abrasion resistance of flatwork. On
concrete surfaces exposed to the sun, heat reflecting white
pigmented compounds should be used. The capability for
305R-16 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT
moisture retention varies considerably between products. For
use under hot weather conditions, a material should be
selected that provides better moisture retention than required
by ASTM C 309. It limits the moisture loss in a 72 h period
to not more than 9 lb/yd3 (0.55 kg/m3) when tested in accor-
dance with ASTM C 156. Some agencies have set a more
restrictive limit of 0.39 kg/m2 of moisture loss in a 72 h
period. On flatwork, application should be started immedi-
ately after disappearance of the surface water sheen after the
final finishing pass. When applied by spraying, the spray
nozzles should be held or positioned sufficiently close to the
surface to assure the correct application rate and prevent
wind-blown dispersion. Manual application should be in two
passes, with the second pass proceeding at right angles to the
first application. Most curing compounds should not be used
on any surface against which additional concrete or other
materials are to be bonded, unless the curing material will
not reduce bond strength or unless removal of the curing
material is assured before subsequent bonded construction.
4.4.4 Curing of concrete in formsForms should be
covered and kept continuously moist during the early curing
period. Formed concrete requires early access to ample
external curing water for strength development. This is
particularly important when using high-strength concrete
having a w/cm less than approximately 0.40 (ACI 363R).
The forms should be loosened as soon as this can be done
without damage to the concrete, and provisions made for the
curing water to run down inside them. Cracking may occur
when the concrete cools rapidly from a high peak tempera-
ture and is restrained from contracting. In more massive
members, and if the internal temperature rise cannot be
controlled by available means, the concrete should be given
thermal protection so that it will cool gradually at a rate that
will not cause the concrete to crack. After form removal,
form tie holes can be filled and any necessary repairs made
by uncovering a small portion of the concrete at a time to
carry on this work. These repairs should be completed in the
first few days after stripping so the repairs and tie-hole fillings
can cure with the surrounding concrete. At the end of the curing
period (7 days should be minimum; 10 days is better), the
covering should be left in place without wetting for several
days (4 days is suggested) so that the concrete surface will dry
slowly and be less subject to surface shrinkage cracking. The
effects of drying can also be minimized by applying a spray-
able curing compound at the end of the moist-curing period.
CHAPTER 5TESTING AND INSPECTION
5.1Testing
5.1.1 Tests on the fresh concrete sample should be
conducted and specimens prepared in accordance with appli-
cable ASTM Standards. Tests should be performed by an ACI
certified concrete technician. The sample should be as repre-
sentative as possible of the potential strength and other prop-
erties of the concrete as delivered. High temperature, low
relative humidity, and drying winds are particularly detri-
mental to the sample of fresh concrete used for making tests
and molding specimens. Leaving the sample of fresh concrete
exposed to sun, wind, or dry air will invalidate test results.
5.1.2 It is sometimes desirable in hot weather to conduct
tests such as slump, air content, ambient and concrete tem-
perature, relative humidity, and unit weight more frequently
than for normal conditions.
5.1.3 The most important factor affecting plastic shrink-
age is the evaporation rate, which can be estimated from
Fig. 2.1.5 with the prevailing temperature, relative humidity,
and wind speed. The evaporation rate can be determined
more accurately by evaporating water from a cake pan hav-
ing an area of approximately 1 ft2 (0.093 m2). The pan is
filled with water and the mass determined every 15 to 20 min
to determine the evaporation rate, which is equal to the loss
of water mass from the pan. A balance of at least 5.5 lb
(2500 g) capacity is satisfactory.
5.1.4 Particular attention should be given to the protection
and curing of strength test specimens used as a basis for
acceptance of concrete. Due to their small size in relation to
most parts of the structure, test specimens are influenced
more readily by changes in ambient temperatures. Extra
effort is needed in hot weather to maintain strength test spec-
imens at a temperature of 60 to 80 F (16 to 27 C) and to
prevent moisture loss during the initial curing period, in
accordance with ASTM C 31/C 31M. If possible, the speci-
mens should be provided with an impervious cover and
placed in a temperature-controlled job facility immediately
after molding. If stored outside, exposure to the sun should
be avoided and the cooling effect of evaporating water
should be used to help provide the required curing condition.
The following methods for nonpotentially absorptive test
molds have been found practical:
Embedding in damp sand. Care should be taken to
maintain sand in continuously moist conditions (not
to be used for cardboard molds);
Covering with wet burlap. Care should be taken to
maintain burlap in a continuously moist condition
and out of contact with the concrete;
Continuous fog sprays. Care should be taken to pre-
vent interruptions of the fog spray; and
Total immersion in water (not to be used for card-
board molds). Specimens may be immersed immedi-
ately in saturated limewater after molding. Because
specimens are made with hydraulic cement, which
hardens under water, specimen cylinders need not be
covered with a cap, but generally they are, as a pre-
cautionary measure to prevent external damage.
5.1.5 Molds must not be of a type that is potentially
absorptive and expands when in contact with moisture or
when immersed in water. Molds should meet the require-
ments of ASTM C 470. Merely covering the top of the
molded test cylinder with a lid or plate is usually not suffi-
cient in hot weather to prevent loss of moisture and to maintain
the required initial curing temperature. During the transfer to
the testing facility, the specimens should be kept moist and also
be protected and handled carefully. They should then be
stored in a moist condition at 73 2 F (23 1.7 C) until the
moment of test.
5.1.6 Specimens in addition to those required for accep-
tance may be made and cured at the job site to assist in deter-
 HOT WEATHER CONCRETING 305R-17

mining when forms can be removed, when shoring can be 207.4R Cooling and Insulating Systems for Mass Con-
removed, and when the placement can be placed in service. crete
Unless specimens used for these purposes are cured at the 211.1R Standard Practice for Selecting Proportions for
same place and as nearly as possible under the same condi- Normal, Heavyweight, and Mass Concrete
tions as the placement, results of the tests can be misleading. 211.2 Standard Practice for Selecting Proportions for
Alternative test methods for determining in place concrete Structural Lightweight Concrete
strength are described in ASTM C 900 and ASTM C 918. 211R Guide for the Use of Normal Weight Aggre-
gates in Concrete
5.2Inspection 212.3R Chemical Admixtures for Concrete
5.2.1 The numerous details to be looked after in concrete 221R Guide for Use of Normal Weight Aggregates in
construction are covered in ACI 311.1R and 311.4R. The Concrete
particular effects of hot weather on concrete performance 223R Standard Practice for the Use of Shrinkage-Com-
and the precautions to be taken to minimize adverse effects pensating Concrete
have been discussed previously. Project inspection of con- 224R Control of Cracking in Concrete Structures
crete is necessary to ensure compliance with these additional 224.3R Joints in Concrete Construction
precautions and procedures. Adequate inspection is also nec- 225R Guide to the Selection and Use of Hydraulic
essary to verify and document this compliance. The need for Cements
such measures as spraying of forms and subgrade, cooling 226.3R Use of Fly Ash in Concrete
concrete, providing sunshades, windscreens, or fogging and 234R Guide for the Use of Silica Fume in Concrete
the like, and minimizing delays in placement and curing 301 Specifications for Structural Concrete for
should be anticipated. Buildings
5.2.2 Air temperature, concrete temperature (ASTM C 302.1R Guide for Concrete Floor and Slab Construc-
1064), general weather conditions (clear, cloudy), wind tion
speed, relative humidity, and evaporation rate should be 304R Guide for Measuring, Mixing, Transporting,
recorded at frequent intervals. In addition, the following and Placing Concrete
should be recorded and identified with the work in progress 306R Cold Weather Concreting
so that conditions relating to any part of the concrete 308R Standard Practice for Curing Concrete
construction can be identified at a later date: 309R Guide for Consolidation of Concrete
All water added to the mixture with corresponding 311.1R/ Manual of Concrete Inspection
mixing times; (SP-2)
Time batched, time discharge started, and time 311.4R Guide for Concrete Inspection Programs
discharge completed; 318/ Building Code Requirements for Structural
Concrete temperature at time of delivery and after 318R Concrete and Commentary
placing concrete; 318M/ Building Code Requirements for Structural
Observations on the appearance of concrete as deliv- 318RM Concrete and Commentary
ered and after placing in forms; 363R Report on High Strength Concrete
Slump of concrete as delivered; E4-96 Chemical and Air-Entraining Admixtures for
Slump of concrete as discharged; and Concrete
Protection and curing: ASTM International
Method; C 31/C 31M Standard Practice for Making and Curing
Time of application; Concrete Test Specimens in the Field
Rate of application; C 156 Standard Test Method for Water Retention
Visual appearance of concrete; and by Concrete Curing Materials
Duration of curing. C 172 Standard Practice for Sampling Freshly
These observations should be included in the permanent Mixed Concrete
project records. C 192 Standard Practice for Making and Curing
Concrete Test Specimens in the Laboratory
CHAPTER 6REFERENCES C 309 Standard Specification for Liquid Mem-
6.1Referenced standards and reports brane-Forming Compounds for Curing
The documents of the various standards-producing organi- Concrete
zations referred to in this document are listed below with C 494 Standard Specification for Chemical Ad-
their serial designation. mixtures for Concrete
American Concrete Institute C 595 Standard Specification for Blended Hy-
116R Cement and Concrete Terminology draulic Cements
201.2R Guide to Durable Concrete C 618 Standard Specification for Fly Ash and
207.1R Mass Concrete Raw or Calcined Natural Pozzolan for Use
207.2R Effect of Restraint, Volume Change, and Rein- as a Mineral Admixture in Portland Ce-
forcement on Cracking of Massive Concrete ment Concrete
305R-18 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT
C 989 Standard Specification for Ground Granu-
lated Blast-Furnace Slag for Use in Con-
crete and Mortars
C 1017 Standard Specification for Chemical Ad-
mixtures for Use in Producing Flowing
Concrete
C 1064 Standard Test Method for Temperature of
Freshly Mixed Portland-Cement Concrete
STP 169 C Significance of Tests and Properties of
Concrete and Concrete-Making Materials,
1994, 571 pp.
These publications may be obtained from the following or-
ganizations:
American Concrete Institute
P.O. Box 9094
Farmington Hills, Mich. 48333-9094
ASTM International
100 Barr Harbor Drive
West Conshohocken, Pa. 19428
6.2Cited references
American Concrete Institute, 1996, Practitioners Guide
to Hot Weather Concreting, ACI PP-1.
Barnes, B. D.; Orndorff, R. L.; and Roten, J. E., 1977,
Low Initial Curing Temperature Improves the Strength of
Concrete Test Cylinders, ACI JOURNAL, Proceedings V. 74,
No. 12, Dec., pp. 612-615.
Berhane, Z., 1984, Evaporation of Water from Fresh
Mortar and Concrete at Different Environmental Condi-
tions, ACI JOURNAL, Proceedings V. 81, No. 6, Nov.-Dec.,
pp. 560-565.
Bloem, D., 1954, Effect of Curing Conditions on Com-
pressive Strengths of Concrete Cylinders, Publication No.
53, National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, Dec., 15 pp.
Cebeci, O. Z., 1986, Hydration and Porosity of Cement
Paste in Warm and Dry Environment, 8th International
Congress on the Chemistry of Cement, Rio de Janeiro, V. III,
pp. 412-416; 423-424.
Cebeci, O. Z., 1987, Strength of Concrete in Warm and
Dry Environment, Materials and Structures, Research and
Testing (RILEM, Paris), V. 20, No. 118, July pp. 270-272.
Collepardi, M.; Corradi, M.; and Valente, M., 1979,
Low-Slump-Loss Superplasticized Concrete, Transporta-
tion Research Record 720, Transportation Research Board,
Washington, D.C., Jan., pp. 7-12,
Gaynor, R. D.; Meininger, R. C.; and Khan, T. S., 1985,
Effects of Temperature and Delivery Time on Concrete
Proportions, Temperature Effects on Concrete, STP-858,
ASTM, Philadelphia, pp. 68-87.
Guennewig, T., 1988, Cost-Effective Use of Superplasticiz-
ers, Concrete International: Design & Construction, V. 10,
No. 3, Mar., pp. 31-34.
Hampton, J. S., 1981, Extended Workability of Concrete
Containing High-Range Water-Reducing Admixtures in Hot
Weather, Developments in the Use of Superplasticizers,
SP-68, V. M. Malhotra, ed., American Concrete Institute,
Farmington Hills, Mich., pp. 409-422.
Klieger, P., 1958, Effect of Mixing and Curing Tempera-
ture on Concrete Strength, ACI JOURNAL, Proceedings V. 54,
No. 12, June, pp. 1063-1081. Also, Research Department
Bulletin 103, Portland Cement Association.
Lee, M., 1987, New Technology in Concrete Cooling,
Concrete Products, V. 89, No. 7, July, pp. 24-26, 36.
Lerch, William, 1957, Plastic Shrinkage, ACI JOURNAL,
Proceedings, V. 53, No. 8, Feb., 797-802.
Mentha, P. K., 1986, Concrete Structure, Properties and
Materials, pp. 56-57
Mittelacher, M., 1985, Effect of Hot Weather Conditions
on the Strength Performance of Set-Retarded Field Con-
crete, Temperature Effects on Concrete, STP 858, ASTM,
Philadelphia, pp. 88-106.
Mittelacher, M., 1992, Compressive Strength and The
Rising Temperature of Field Concrete, Concrete Interna-
tional, V.14, No.12, Dec., pp 2933.
National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, 1962,
Cooling Ready Mixed Concrete, Publication No. 106, Sil-
ver Spring, June, 7 pp.
Olivieri, E., and Martin, I., 1963, Curing of Concrete in
Puerto Rico, Revista, Colegio de Agricultura y Artes
Mecanicas, Universidad de Puerto Rico, Mayaguez.
Portland Cement Association, 1992, Design And Control
of Concrete Mixtures, Thirteenth Edition, p. 80.
Ravina, D., 1984, Slump Loss of Fly Ash Concrete,
Concrete International: Design & Construction, Proceed-
ings, V. 6, No. 4, Apr., pp. 35-39.
Ravina, D., and Shalon, R., 1968a, Shrinkage of Fresh Mor-
tars Cast under and Exposed to Hot Dry Climatic Conditions,
Proceedings, Colloquium on Shrinkage of Hydraulic Concrete,
RILEM/Cembureau, Paris, V. 2, (published by Instituto Eduardo
Torroja, Madrid).
Ravina, D., and Shalon, R., 1968b, Plastic Shrinkage and
Cracking, ACI JOURNAL, Proceedings V. 65, No. 4, Apr.,
pp. 282-291.
Shilstone J., Sr., and Shilstone J., Jr., 1993, High-Perfor-
mance Concrete Mixtures For Durability, High-Perfor-
mance Concrete in Severe Environments, SP140, P. Zia,
ed. American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, Mich.,
pp. 281-305.
Tuthill, L. H., and Cordon, W. A., 1955, Properties and
Uses of Initially Retarded Concrete, ACI JOURNAL, Pro-
ceedings V. 52, No. 3, Nov., pp. 273-286.
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, 1952, Effect of Initial Curing
Temperatures on the Compressive Strength and Durability
of Concrete, Report No. C-625, Denver, 7 pp.
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, 1975, Concrete Manual, 8th
Edition., Denver, 627 pp.
Verbeck, G. J., and Helmuth, R. H., 1968, Structure and
Physical Properties of Cement Pastes, Proceedings, Fifth
International Symposium on the Chemistry of Cement, To-
kyo, V. III, pp. 1-32.
Yamamoto, Y. and Kobayashi, S., 1986, Effect of Tem-
perature on the Properties of Superplasticized Concrete,
ACI JOURNAL, Proceedings V. 83, No. 1, Jan-Feb., pp. 80-87.
 HOT WEATHER CONCRETING 305R-19

APPENDIX AESTIMATING CONCRETE T a W wa W i ( 79.6 0.5T i )

TEMPERATURE + -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
0.22 ( W a + W c ) + W w + W i + W wa
A1Equations for estimating temperature T of
freshly mixed concrete are shown in the following.
Without ice (in.-lb and SI units) APPENDIX BMETHODS FOR COOLING
FRESH CONCRETE
The summary is limited to a description of methods suit-
0.22 ( T a W a + T c W c ) + T w W w + T a W wa
T = -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- (A-1) able for most structural uses of concrete. Methods for the
0.22 ( W a + W c ) + W w + W wa cooling of mass concrete are explained in ACI 207.4R.

With ice (in.-lb units) B1Cooling with chilled mixing water

Concrete can be cooled to a moderate extent by using
chilled mixing water; the maximum reduction in concrete
0.22 ( T a W a + T c W c ) + T w W w + T a W wa 112W i
T = -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- (A-2) temperature that can be obtained is approximately 10 F (6 C).
0.22 ( W a + W c ) + W w + W i + W wa The quantity of cooled water cannot exceed the mixing
water requirement, which will depend upon the moisture
With ice (SI units) content of aggregates and mixture proportions. The method
involves a significant investment in mechanical refrigeration
0.22 ( T a W a + T c W c ) + T w W w + T a W wa 79.6W w equipment and insulated water storage large enough for the
T = --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- (A-3) anticipated hourly and daily production rates of cooled
0.22 ( W a + W c ) + W w + W i + W wa
concrete. Available systems include one that is based on
heat-pump technology, which is usable for both cooling and
where heating of concrete. Apart from its initial installation cost,
Ta = temperature of aggregate this system appears to offer cooling at the lowest cost of
Tc = temperature of cement available systems for cooling mixing water.
Tw = temperature of batched mixing water from normal
supply excluding ice B2Liquid nitrogen cooling of mixing water
Mixing water can be chilled rapidly through injection of
Ti = temperature of ice. (Note: The temperature of free
liquid nitrogen into an insulated holding tank. This chilled
and absorbed water on the aggregate is assumed to
water is then dispensed into the batch. Alternatively, the
be the same temperature as the aggregate. All tem-
mixing water may be turned into ice slush by liquid nitrogen
peratures are in F or C.)
injection into the mixing water stream as it is discharged into
Wa = dry mass of aggregate the mixer. The system enables cooling by as much as 20 F
Wc = mass of cement (11 C). The ratio of ice-to-water in the slush must be adjusted
Wi = mass of ice to produce the temperature of concrete desired. Installation of
Ww = mass of batched mixing water this system requires insulated mixing water storage, a nitrogen
Wwa = mass of free and absorbed moisture in aggregate supply vessel, batch controls, and auxiliary equipment. Apart
at Ta. (Note: All masses are in lb or kg.) from installation costs, there are operating expenses from
A2Eq. (A-2) and (A-3), for estimating the temperature liquid nitrogen usage and rental fees for the nitrogen supply
of concrete with ice in U. S. customary or SI units, assume vessel. The method differs from that by direct liquid nitrogen
that the ice is at its melting point. A more exact approach injection into mixed concrete described in B4.
would be to use Eq. (A-4) or (A-5), which includes the tem-
perature of the ice. B3Cooling concrete with ice
Concrete can be cooled by using ice for part of the mixing
water. The amount of cooling is limited by the amount of
With ice (in.-lb units) mixing water available for ice substitution. For most
concrete, the maximum temperature reduction is approximately
0.22 ( T a W a + T c W c )T w W w 20 F (11 C). For correct proportioning, the ice must be
T = --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (A-4)
0.22 ( W a + W c ) + W w + W i + W wa 79.6W w weighed. Cooling with block ice involves the use of a
crusher/slinger unit, which can finely crush a block of ice
and blow it into the mixer. A major obstacle to the use of
T a W wa W i ( 128 0.5T i ) block ice in many areas is insufficient supply. Costs of using
+ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
0.22 ( W a + W c ) + W w + W i + W wa block ice are: the cost of ice including transportation, refrig-
erated storage, handling and crushing equipment, additional
With ice (SI units) labor, and if required, provisions for weighing the ice. An
alternative to using block ice is to set up an ice plant near the
concrete plant. As the ice is produced, it is weighed, crushed,
0.22 ( T a W a + T c W c )T w W w
T = -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- (A-5) and conveyed into the mixer. It may also be produced and used
0.22 ( W a + W c ) + W w + W i + W wa as flake ice. This system requires a large capital investment.
305R-20 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT
B4Cooling mixed concrete with liquid nitrogen
B4.1 Injection of liquid nitrogen into freshly mixed con-
crete is an effective method for reduction of concrete temper-
ature. The practical lower limit of concrete temperature is
reached when concrete nearest the injection nozzle forms
into a frozen lump; this is likely to occur when the desired
concrete temperature is less than 50 F. The method has been
successfully used in a number of major concrete placements.
The performance of concrete was not affected adversely by
its exposure to large amounts of liquid nitrogen. Cost of this
method is relatively high, but it may be justified on the basis
of practical considerations and overall effectiveness.
B4.2 Installations of the system consist of a nitrogen
supply vessel and injection facility for central mixers, or one
or more injection stations for truck mixers. The system can be
set up at the construction site for last-minute cooling of the
concrete before placement. This reduces temperature gains of
cooled concrete in transit between the concrete plant and job
site. Coordination is required in the dispatching of liquid
nitrogen tanker trucks to injection stations for the timely
replenishing of gas consumed in the cooling operations. The
quantity of liquid nitrogen required will vary according to
mixture proportions and constituents, and the amount of
temperature reduction. The use of 135 ft3 (48 m3) of liquid
nitrogen will usually reduce concrete temperature 1 F (0.5 C).
B5Cooling of coarse aggregates
B5.1 An effective method of lowering the temperature
of the coarse aggregate is by cool water spraying or inun-
dation. Coarse aggregate has the greatest mass in a typical
concrete mixture. Reducing the temperature of the aggre-
gate approximately 2 0.5 F (1 0.5 C) will lower the
final concrete temperature approximately 1 F (0.5 C). To
use this method, the producer must have available large
amounts of chilled water and the necessary water-cooling
equipment for production requirements. This method is
most effective when adequate amounts of coarse material
are contained in a silo or bin so that cooling can be accom-
plished in a short period of time. Care must be taken to
evenly inundate the material so that slump variation from
load to load is minimized.
B5.2 Cooling of coarse aggregate can also be accom-
plished by blowing air through the moist aggregate. The air
flow will enhance evaporative cooling and can bring the
coarse aggregate temperature within 2 F (1 C) of wet bulb
temperature. Effectiveness of the method depends on
ambient temperature, relative humidity, and velocity of air
flow. The added refinement of using chilled air instead of air
at ambient temperature can reduce the coarse aggregate
temperature to as low as 45 F (7 C). This method, however,
involves a relatively high installation cost.